Faculty and staff play an important role in shaping the college experience for students. They help guide students, support their goals, and prepare them for life after graduation. At The University of Texas Permian Basin, the Student Government Association (SGA) created a new way to recognize those efforts through its SGA Faculty/Staff of the Week Award. SGA President Alondra Ortiz and Student Body Vice President Shan Jiwani brought the idea to the student senate after hearing from many students who wanted a way to thank their professors and staff members.
“When speaking with students, many shared how grateful they were for their professors and staff,” Shan said. “But there was no clear or visible way for them to show that appreciation.”
The recognition program launched late last year as part of SGA’s goal to strengthen relationships across campus and build a more connected University community. Since then, several faculty and staff members have been honored for the difference they make in students’ lives.
The first honoree was assistant professor Dr. Jeffery Washburn. He said being selected was an “incredible honor.” Washburn shared that the most rewarding part of his work is helping students grow.
“Challenging students to ask new questions, make new mistakes, and push themselves is very rewarding,” he said. “Then I get to support them and cheer them on as they take those steps.”
For Alondra, the program is about making sure faculty and staff know their efforts matter.
“We want professors and staff to know we see and value the effort they put into helping us learn, grow, and graduate,” she said.
SGA is working with the Office of Human Resources, the Heimmermann Center for Engaged Teaching, and the Office of the Dean of Students to support the program. These partnerships help expand the weekly award initiative and keep it connected to the University’s mission of student success.
Alondra believes the program also reminds students that they have strong support on campus.
“By highlighting the positive impact faculty and staff have on students, we encourage them to keep going above and beyond,” she said. “It also helps students see that there are people on campus who truly want them to succeed.”
“My hope is that this reminds everyone that we are one community,” Shan said. “Students, faculty, and staff are all working toward the same goal, which is student success.”
Any UTPB student can nominate a faculty or staff member for recognition. Students can find nomination information on SGA’s Instagram page, @utpbsga.
